SP-A and SP-D are involved in the essential innate immune response in protecting against pathogens.27 Since SP-A and SP-D have also been shown to protect against NEC in vivo and in vitro models,17 we explored the possibility that antenatal dexamethasone may modulate SP-A and/or SP-D expression resulting in the protection of the mucosa barrier in the neonatal rat ileum. This evidence concerns the gene SFTPD and necrotizing enterocolitis.